The 1881-S Morgan Dollar is known for being the most available coin of the series in mint state grades. Not only did the issue have a relatively high mintage of 12,760,000 coins, it is estimated that almost half of this amount survive in uncirculated condition.
The two main coin grading companies PCGS and NGC have certified more than 100,000 of the 1881-S Morgan Dollars in grades MS65 and higher.
The commonness of this date in gem condition makes it an ideal proxy for the market for generic mint state Morgan Dollars and an ideal coin for type sets.
1881-S Morgan Dollar Mintage and Specifications
- Mintage: 12,760,000
- Mint mark: S (San Francisco)
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight: 26.73 grams
- Diameter: 38.1 mm